Research Specialist

CONTACT

AREAS OF INTEREST

My current interest involves the physiology and ecology of trichomycete fungi. These fungi inhabit the guts of aquatic Diptera. Many of these fungi have defied in vitro culture and I try to determine the physiological parameters of the insect gut that are important in the growth of the fungi. This approach can give clues to the culture requirements. We are also studying the stream environment and the ecology of the symbiosis. I also have an interest in other aquatic Diptera symbiotes such as Coelomycidium, Oomycetes, and microsporidia. I retain an interest in structure-function relationships of higher plants as a remnant of my botanical training. I am also now involved in butterfly proboscis project. There is more information on this page.